After the perfect give for a friend or loved one? There’s no need to look far because there are plenty of shops in Powai that sell attractive gift items, such as toys, books, music, handicrafts, home furnishings, jewellerly, and other novelty items. Whether you’re buying something for a child, a friend, or a relative there are lots of options!

Here are five places to find great gifts in Powai.

1. Lucky Plus

Lucky Plus, located on Central Avenue in the Cypress market, possibly has the best selection of greeting cards in Powai (rivaled only by Archies in Powai Plaza). Pleasingly, they’re out on display at the front of the store for easy selection too. In addition to greeting cards, Lucky Plus stocks all sorts of novelty gifts, hobby items, sporting goods, childrens toys, and items for new born babies. Have a hunt around. There really is something for everyone in there!

2. Shubham Jewellers

Shubham Jewellers, located at Shop 65 in the Galleria Shopping Centre (on the corner of Central Avenue and Main Street, Hiranandani Gardens), has some exquisite items for a special occasion. As well as gold jewellery, precious stones and birth stones, they also stock a collection of framed Lord Ganesha idols on intricate gold plated peepal leaves. The display case at the front of the store is really eye-catching. Phone: 022 25717180.

3. Handicraft Stores

Handicrafts and household items make wonderful gifts, and Powai is fortunate enough to have three renowned stores that sell a wide and unique range of these items — Maarti (in Powai Plaza), FabIndia (on Lake Boulevard Rd) , and Suriti the Culture Shop (in Haiko Mall). Choose from home furnishings, bedding, incense, bronze statues, earthenware, garments, hand made jewellery, and artwork. The stores support craft people and artisans all across India, so you’ll be shopping for a good cause!

4. Crossword and Vasundhara Book Shops

If you’re buying for a book lover, Crossword book store on Central Avenue is the place to go. As well as mainstream books in all different genres, a limited range of music and stationery items are also available there. Phone 022 6694 2555‎ or visit the Crossword website for more information. If you’re after something specalised, try the Vasundhara Book Shop which sells translations (in Hindi and English) of the works of famous regional and international writers and poets. It’s hidden away on the 6th floor of Gateway Plaza (near Powai Plaza on Central Avenue) in Powai. Phone 022 2570 5857.

5. Planet M

This Planet M is one of many stores in the popular chain, which has branches all over Mumbai and India. It’s tucked away on the ground floor of the Haiko Place shopping mall, on Central Avenue, Hiranandani Gardens. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of music and movies (both past and present), perfect for devotees. Planet M also sells mobile phones, gaming consoles, and MP3 players. Phone 022 25797788‎ or visit the Planet M website for more information.

When in Powai, you know where to go looking for Paulo Coelho, Arundhati Roy, Sophie Kinsella & even Shakespeare but do you know where you can find literary gems like Amrita Pritam, Rabindranath Tagore, Bhishma Sahani, (Latin American) Isabelle Allende, (Chinese) Wang Meng Jao Da Nian, (Hebrew) Amos Oz?

Tucked away on the 6th floor of Gateway Plaza is a treasure chest for book lovers which goes by the name “Vasundhara”. Here you will find translations (in Hindi and English) of the works of famous regional and international writers and poets.

Fiction writers Dr. Jitendra Bhatia, Oma Sharma, Sudha Arora, Suryabala, Suraj Prakash, & Poet Anoop Sethi

The brainchild of Sudha Arora & Jitendra Bhatia, this book store was launched in 2001 with a desire to make regional & international literature more popular & accessible to one & all. Both Sudha & her husband are writers, having written mainly in Hindi. They have experimented with all forms of writing; covering a panorama of novels, short stories & plays. It was this love for books & the experience of not finding the book you want that literally forced the couple to set up a bookshop & library after they retired from their respective careers. This store also serves as a research-cum-reference library for those working on their PhDs/Masters and those who cannot afford to buy every recommended book. In the past, this cosy book store has hosted many evenings where like-minded people, alongwith literary geniuses, have exchanged ideas, recited poetry, sought inspiration & eventually churned out more for us to read.

Apart from catering to adults, this store also houses books for children in Hindi (Premchand, Rajendra Yadav, V Suteyev), Marathi (Binda Karandikar, Pradmya Pawar, Namdev Dhasal) and Gujarati(Varsha Adlaja, Dhiruben Patel). A few years ago, i bought some illustrated story books to give as return gifts on my son’s birthday – what a hit they were !! So, if you are wondering how to enrich their minds while exposing them to a language closer to our hearts than English – just head to Vasundhara.

The address is 602, Gateway Plaza, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, Mumbai 400 076 India. Tel: 25705857 email: vasundhara2000@gmail.com / sudhaarora@gmail.com / jitendra.bhatia@gmail.com

Article credits: Anuradha W Ramachandran.

These days, being environmentally friendly has started to become fashionable. Eco-friendly hotels are popping up all over India. However, despite laying claim to being eco-friendly, some are much more sensitive to the environment than others.

The Rodas EcoTel in Powai belongs to the EcoTel group of hotels — an international collection of inns, hotels, and resorts that has been certified to meet stringent criteria set by environmental experts. But, what does it take be recognised as an EcoTel Hotel?

The EcoTel team recently undertook a case study of the Rodas EcoTel, which revealed a number of inspiring initiatives.

Rodas EcoTel Construction

• The hotel’s neoclassical arched façade, while visually arresting, plays a role in reducing loss of energy from the sides of the building and thus maintaining lower temperatures within. The façade with its dual layers – external arches and columns and internal walls and glazed windows – increases the insulation for the building envelope, reducing energy losses. The building itself is positioned such that the centre-point of its parabolic shape faces the north-east, which reduces the effect of direct sunlight and thus helps the hotel save on the energy requirement for air-conditioning and lighting.
• The cement used throughout the building is Portland Pozzalana (PPC), which uses 25% fly ash, a by-product of electric power generation.
• All the wood used is either rubber wood (resulting from felled rubber trees) or medium density fibre (from the waste stalks of the cotton tree).

Like the building, the facilities infrastructure has been designed in a manner that it enables energy-efficient operations, and energy meters allow staff to monitor consumption within the individual departments.

Rodas EcoTel Waste Management

• Emphasis on reducing waste at source: Guest laundry is lightly folded and delivered to the guests in jute baskets, and not in plastic or paper covers that must be thrown away. Suits are delivered to guests in muslin cloth covers.
• Kitchen waste is systematically carefully segregated according to the four-bin system, and food waste is sent for composting. Guestrooms feature two bins – one for recyclables and another for non-recyclables.
• 50-kilograms of wet garbage is deposited into six composting pits daily. The sale of vermicompost for use within and outside the Hiranandani complex generates an additional income.
• With the help of an in-house tailor, the housekeeping department ensures that all spare or leftover fabric or linen is recycled into something useful. Double bed sheets that are no longer usable in the guestrooms owing to a small spot or tear are converted into single sheets. Bed sheets are also converted into pillow covers, while tablecloths are converted into wiping cloths and tray mats.

Rodas EcoTel Energy Management

• The hotel does not use boilers to heat water for the bathrooms and kitchen; instead, the excess heat generated by the air conditioners is reused to heat water up to 50°C.
• Another by-product of the air conditioning system – chilled water at -7°C – is reused by being circulated through Rodas’s central water purifying unit, in order to cool water that has been purified using ultra-violet rays and is otherwise fit for consumption.
• The hotel maintains the Power Factor at 0.97 to 0.99, thereby earning a small discount from the local utility company, which encourages energy savings.

Rodas EcoTel Water Management

• Taps are fitted with flow restrictors that operate on timers. Wash basins and toilets in public areas have sensors. The toilets in all guest bathrooms feature the Geberit concealed cistern, which uses only six litres of water per flush.
• The hotel’s entire wastewater is diverted to a huge sewage treatment plant located within the Hiranandani Gardens.
• Tent cards placed on the bed inform guests about the hotel’s ‘Save Our Planet’ linen and towel reuse program.

Rodas EcoTel Staff and Community Involvement

• Each year prior to Ganesh Chaturthi, Rodas organises a workshop to teach school children to make Ganesh idols out of natural silt soil from Lake Powai and organic colours, with pistachio shells and pulses for decoration. In 2009, about 300-children from 18-schools (both regular schools and those for special needs) participated.
• Following the Ganesh Visarjan (immersion of the idols into the sea), which marks the culmination of the 10-day Ganeshotsav festival, the Green Team gets together on the Lake Powai promenade to clean up the area.
• The hotel management frequently interacts with school children from around the locality and talks to them about the importance of being environmentally friendly, ending the sessions with some lovely goodies from the kitchen.

Rodas EcoTel Environment Commitment

• All refrigeration units (including walk-in coolers and deep freezers), use the gases 134A and 404A, which have zero ozone depletion potential, and are the most environmentally-friendly gases for such equipments. All detergents used have a very low/neutral pH value. Pest controlling is done herbally.
• Disposable plastic/Styrofoam products are prohibited in the kitchen.
• Pulses, rice and other essentials provided to the kitchen are delivered either in reusable cloth bags provided by the supplier, or in cloth bags stitched by Rodas’s in-house tailor out of leftover fabric available with housekeeping.
• All hangers in the guestrooms’ wardrobe areas are made out of sawdust.
• All promotional materials are made out of 50-75% post consumer content paper.

As Rodas approaches its ninth anniversary, new initiatives are in place – to create a second herb garden, and to make space available to increase the number of composting pits. Rodas manages to save approximately Rs1 lakh (USD 2,200) per year per room by engaging in environmentally-friendly practices. The case for going green is not just philanthropic but extremely business friendly.

For more information, refer to ECOTEL Version 2.0 – Reaching Out – By Shamsher Singh Mann and Deepika Thadani.

There are a number of excellent world class hotels in Powai, despite its suburban location. Many are particularly well suited to business travellers.

What’s really appealing about the hotels in Powai is that they’re quite handy if you want to be close to Mumbai airport but away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s possible to reach the airport in under 30 minutes, as long as there’s not too much traffic!

Here are the top 5 hotels in Powai.

1. Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel

Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel, Powai.

Part of the luxury Marriott hotel chain, the Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre is the only 5-star hotel in Powai. It’s a sprawling but very well maintained hotel complex, peacefully located on the banks of Powai Lake. Facilities are outstanding and include seven restaurants and lounges (including two of Powai’s best bars), swimming pool, fitness centre, and activities. The hotel has 549 rooms and 34 suites. Double rooms are available from 9,000 rupees per night, and room packages from 11,000 rupees per night. Phone +91 22 66927777 or visit the Renaissance Hotel website for more information or reservations.

2. Ramada Powai

Ramada Powai Hotel.

The Ramada Powai is best classified as a 4-star business hotel. It’s situated past the Renaissance hotel, towards Vihar Lake and the National Institute Training in Industrial Engineering. With only 134 rooms located in a 10 floor tower, it’s not a large hotel. There’s a restaurant, bar, and coffee shop, along with swimming pool, fitness centre, and games room. Double rooms normally start from 12,000 rupees per night, so if you stay here try and find a special offer that will give you better value for money. Phone +91 22 6777 6111 or visit the Ramada Powai website for more information or reservations.

3. The Residence Hotel and Convention Centre

The Residence Hotel and Convention Centre, Powai.

The Residence Hotel and Convention Centre has the same location as the Ramada hotel. In fact, it’s owned by the Ramada hotel and both hotels share many facilities, such as the swimming pool. However, the Residence isn’t quite as fancy or as popular as the Ramada. The hotel has 143 rooms, including 27 apartment suites. Double rooms start at 10,000 rupees per night, and go up to 15,000 for an apartment. Again, look for discounts off the rack rate! Phone +91 22 2857 5000 or visit the The Residence Hotel and Convention Centre website for more information or reservations.

4. Rodas Ecotel Hotel

Rodas Ecotel Hotel, Powai.

The 3-star Rodas Ecotel Hotel perhaps has the most convenient location in Powai, on Central Avenue right in the heart of Hiranandani Gardens. It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The other attractive thing about this hotel is that it’s eco-friendly. The hotel has a business centre, restaurant, coffee shop, and one of Powai’s best bars but don’t expect many more facilities. The published rack rate of a double room starts from 12,000 rupees, but it’s possible to save almost 60% (and pay only 5,000 rupees per night) by booking over the internet. Phone +91 22 6693 6969 or visit the Rodas Ecotel Hotel website for more information or reservations.
Find out what makes Rodas so eco-friendly.

5. The Beatle

The Beatle, Powai.

The Beatle is a groovy new boutique hotel with the motto of “Modern Indian Host”. Located on leafy Orchard Avenue in Hiranandani Gardens, the hotel was once an office building. It’s got 31 rooms and 3 suites, as well as wine bar, restaurants and gym. Rooms are on the smaller side, but they’re contemporary and modern along with the rest of the hotel. A double room at The Beatle costs 5,500 rupees per night. The Sapphire Suite is 9,000 rupees. Tax additional. Phone +91 22 4089 5000 or visit the The Beatle website for more information or reservations.

Cavernous Powai Plaza, opposite Pizza Hut on Central Avenue Powai, isn’t as lively or as welcoming as its nearby competitor, The Galleria. In fact, Powai Plaza has the distinct feeling of being under construction. The interior is dark and gloomy, stray kabootars clutter the ceiling, and many of the shops are unoccupied. However, this doesn’t mean that you should avoid visiting Powai Plaza altogether. There are actually quite a few interesting shops inside.

Here are five shops in Powai Plaza that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Soma

Soma, Shop 93-94 Powai Plaza.

Soma is located at Shop 93-94 on the ground floor of Powai Plaza, right near the main entrance. It specialises in fine block-printed textiles, produced by village families in Rajasthan. Not only does Soma empower many village women to supplement their family’s income, the store offers some exquisite textile items. Choose from home furnishings, clothes (kurtis, shawls, scarves, and salwaar sets) and bags. What’s really convenient is that all the products can be machine washed! Phone +91 22 2570 1592 or visit the Soma Shop website for more information.

2. Maati

Maati, Shop 109 Powai Plaza.

Maati can be found at Shop 109 on the first floor of Powai Plaza, to the left of the main entrance. The name Maati means Earth, and this essence has been imbibed into the handicrafts sold at the store. Produced using natural materials and methods by artisans based in rural areas, the products are wonderfully unique. The jewellery that you’ll find at Maati has a distinctly tribal look. There are also very attractive beaded handbags, as well as home furnishings (cushion covers, sheets, blankets), and bronze and terracotta items. Phone +91 22 2571 7209 or visit the Maati Crafts website for more information.

3. The Thapovan

The Thapovan, Shop 136 Powai Plaza.

Located at Shop 136, on the first floor to the right of the main entrance, The Thapovan has been offering traditional Kerala Ayurvedic Treatments since 1998. The treatments, provided by a qualified doctor, include Panchakarma, Rejuvenation therapies, Dhara, Pizhichil, Uzhichil, and Njavarakizhi. These treatments are designed to cure a range of specialised illnesses — and the list is extensive, covering everything from arthritis to ulcers. All treatments are based on pure Ayurvedic medicines derived from medicinal plants. Phone +91 22 2570 1007 or visit The Thapovan website for more information.

4. Sheetal Article

Sheetal Article, Shop 18 Powai Plaza.

Sheetal Article is tucked away at the back of Powai Plaza, next to Archies stationary store, in Shop 18. Its blue sign is written completely in Hindi, but the large glass front of the store ensures that it stands out. Inside Sheetal Article you’ll discover a wide range of marble mandirs and marble murtis, paintings, designer name plates, and other marble and granite items. It’s open daily from 10.30 a.m until 8 p.m. Phone +91 98 69 762 684 for more information.

5. Mantra Dining Bar

Mantra Dining Bar, Shop 1-16 Powai Plaza.

Mantra Dining Bar is situated on the ground floor of Powai Plaza, to the left of the main entrance. This restaurant and bar has a very warm and inviting ambiance, with the bar area being particularly appealing. Add to this an impressively varied and tasty menu, including Mughlai, Chinese and Indian cuisine, and you have a popular place for a meal and drinks out! Phone +91 22 2570 2501 for more information and reservations.

Read review of Mantra Dining Bar.

SINCE  1990 NOW IN CHANDIVALIVISION POINT

opticians& contact lens clinic1:

B/11,nahar shopping complex opp lolmilan chandivali powai-72,ph-285812342

EXCLUSIVE RETAIL OPTICAL CLINIC FOR ALL REPUTED BRANDED FRAMES AS WELL AS SUNGLASSES, WE DISPENSE ALL KIND OF PROGRESSIVE, MULTICOATED,TRANSITIONS AND ALL DIFF BRANDS LENSES FRAMES & CONTACT LENSES,WE BELIEVE UR VISION IS OUR FUTURE. PLS DO VISIT ONCE & GIVE US CHANCE TO SERVE U BETTER.

Punjab Sind Dairy Products.
PUNJAB SIND DAIRY PRODUCTS PVT. LTD. is a well-known company, manufacturing in Milk & Milk Products existing in Indian market successfully from last 40 years.
Today the Punjab Sind’s milk products are well known in Mumbai for its quality and also for the healthy relation built by the firm with the patrons. And now day-by-day the popularity and also the production of the Punjab Sind products are growing in various aspects.
Our Products include: • Ghee • Paneer • Fresh Cream • Mava (Khoa) • Lassi(Mango/Plain) • Chaas • Shrikhand • White Butter • Basundi • Rabadi • Curd • Kulfi
We Provide Free Home Delivery in and around powai.

Mr. Ranjan Khanna,

Email: Radhaakrishnainc@gmail.com

Cell: 9320062002/02225797938/32997938

Shop No 174, Galleria,1st Floor, Hiranandani Gardens Powai

We specialize in providing electronic security solutions like CCTV, DVR installations, Fire and intrusion detection systems. We have a list of satisfied clients ranging from 100 sq ft shops to huge Industrial Complexes spread over many acres. Contact us for complementary assessment of your  security requirements.

The Treasure Chest specialises in art from south east asia. We have paintings from Indonesia & Thailand with a multitude of themes ranging from abstract, contemporary, buddhas, seascapes etc. All paintings are reasonably priced within the range of 5,000 – 18,000. Call or email for pictures or a viewing (by appointment only).

B/1003 Eldora Hiranandani Gardens Powai 400076 Mumbai. +91-9769049703 treasurechest@mail.com

Maati is the new craft destination store opened in Powai Plaza, Hiranandani

The inspiration behind Maati, is the essence of nature and earth that’s imbibed into all handmade crafts in India. These crafts have traditionally employed sustainable materials and methods which have consistently proved friendly to man, animal and environment.

By translation traditional crafts into design that can be assimilated into daily lives, we aim to bring craft into mainstream. Our agenda through the Maati store is to create awareness amongst consumers on the uniqueness of handmade products and also encourage a culture of appreciation of these crafts amongst the urban consumers.

Store Location:

109, 1^st Floor, Powai Plaza, Hiranandani Gardens, A.S. Marg, Opp Pizza Hut, Powai, Mumbai 400 076

Timings: 10.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.

Contact Details: +91 22 2571 7209

Email: maaticrafts@gmail.com

Products @ Maati

Maati offers exclusive products from niche craft groups from various corners of the country.

• Silk and cotton apparel and handloom weaves from Bhagalpur, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh.
• Pottery from Pondicherry, Maharashtra
• Basketry from U.P, Tamil Nadu
• Block prints from Jaipur, Andhra pradesh,  Gujarat
• Hand embroidery, Applique work from Kutch and Rajasthan
• Jewelry from Himachal, M.P and Orissa
• Stone products from U.P
• Metal dhokra from Orissa
• Blue pottery from Jaipur

And many many more…